Staff appreciation nights allow students to engage with the staff that has impacted them over the years by taking pictures and giving out awards. This is not only because staff help students improve academically, but also improve them as people. Staff appreciation nights are dedicated to sports teams and music ensembles.

I sat down with our principal, Mr. Siesto, Mrs. Wuest, a Biology and Chemistry teacher, our school security guard, Mr. Cole, our High School P.E. and health teacher and varsity track coach Mr. Goodell, and one of our 10th-grade students, Bree Crouch, to discuss how they feel about staff appreciation.

Siesto states, “Staff appreciation nights started decades ago, ever since he was a teacher.” Mrs. Wuest loves to see how she impacted another’s life. Mr. Cole also agrees but thinks staff should deserve more. Students believe staff appreciation nights make their whole sports season great knowing they have had someone who has supported them through thick and thin. 

Let’s dig deeper into how these staff members think they have gained or lost respect. Mr. Cole believes the staff should be recognized more as they play a big role and deserve more respect. Security is always there for everyone and tries to stop bad situations but is there for moral support for every student. 

Mr. Cole said, “Respect is earned, not just given. ” He believes respect for staff has continued to increase. Mrs. Wuest adds, “Being fair and understanding gains respect from students the most.” 

Bree Crouch has stated that showing respect to teachers when respect is reciprocated is great. 

Staff members appreciate the little things. If you write a card or give them something that means the most to them. Our staff members love to see how they have done something to help others, especially students. Our teachers try to go out of their way to help and make students happy and comfortable in their learning environment. 

Students feel most comfortable when they have connections with their teachers and feel they can open up in tough situations. They believe that coming to school knowing someone is there for them improves their day. As a Victor student, it is best to be open and honest about feelings and receive feedback from staff.

Our varsity indoor track team has done something new this season for staff appreciation. I heard they were having breakfast, this is a very unique way of showing appreciation and must mean more to our athletes and staff members, so I talked to Coach Goodell. 

Coach Goodell states, “This gathering will be held on campus, allowing athletes and staff members to connect in a social environment.”

He believes this will have an amazing outcome by allowing athletes and staff to connect. “We believe that the staff will appreciate this event because it offers a fresh and unique experience, deviating from the usual routine of attending games and being recognized during pregame ceremonies.” 

These student-athletes who are on the varsity track team are very enthusiastic about the change in event. This event should hopefully change the way other districts do their staff appreciation. We are looking for a change!

Staff members believe they get the respect they deserve most of the time. Overall they believe that the smallest things students do to make a point to appreciate them can improve their day in a click. Even a thank you when walking out of the classroom means something.